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By Ignacio Rodriguez, Principal
Hialeah Senior High School
Miami-Dade County Public Schools
right, Automotive Instructor Jonathan Ramos
Miami-Dade County Public Schools Automotive Service Technology program at Hialeah Senior High School and Miami Lakes Educational Center (MLEC), fueled by Gus Machado Ford, is a model of how education and industry can work together to create opportunities for students and benefit the community.
“This is going to be an awesome program,” said Hialeah Senior High School’s Automotive Instructor Jonathan Ramos, noting that it not only equips students with the skills they need for successful careers, but also supports the local economy by providing a pipeline of skilled workers to meet the demands of the automotive industry.
“We’re trying to get all our students ASE certified, which means Automotive Service Excellence,” added Ramos. The National Institute for ASE is a professional group that certifies technicians and shops in the automotive repair and service industry.
right, Jason Mirabal (black shirt) 10th-grade student
Ediel Soriano, (gray shirt) 10th-grade student.
“Those certifications let the dealerships or anyone in the automotive field know that these technicians know what they’re doing,” explained Ramos. “They’re going to be leagues ahead above anyone who isn’t certified.”
For Hialeah High student Jose Taje, being enrolled in the program brings back many fond memories. “Growing up, I would watch my grandpa and dad work on cars together, and I thought it was pretty cool. I’m really grateful to Miami-Dade County Public Schools for this opportunity.”
The Automotive Service Technology program at Hialeah Senior High School offers students a comprehensive education in automotive repair and maintenance. This program is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the automotive industry. Students engage in hands-on learning experiences, working with state-of-the-art tools and technology to diagnose and repair vehicles. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including engine repair, brake systems, electrical systems and more.
“Students who like cars are really going to enjoy coming here,” said student Ediel Soriano. “They get to be in their own space and doing what they like. Mr. Ramos makes it very fun to learn about cars and he does it in a very inspiring way.”
The partnership with Gus Machado Ford, a well-known dealership in Hialeah, has been a game changer for the program. The dealership provides resources, mentorship and real-world experience to students, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.
Gus Machado’s Vice President and General Manager Victor Benitez is himself a graduate of Hialeah High.
“I graduated in 1973. I am a product of the public schools’ system, and I am what I am today because of the public school system,” said Benitez. “I remember when this was a shop class that used to train students to become mechanics.”
When the idea of training students to become mechanics at Hialeah High was presented to him, Benitez knew they had to look into it and it didn’t matter how much it would cost.
“We made a big investment because I think this is going to be the place where future generations of students are going to be coming through to become the technicians,” said Benitez. “I’m really proud of the work we have done in developing a technical school not only for students at Hialeah High, but also for students at Miami Lakes Technical College and Adult Center.”
One of the program’s highlights is the opportunity for students to participate in internships and job shadowing at Gus Machado Ford. These experiences allow students to apply their skills in a real-world setting, gaining valuable insights into the day-to-day operations of an automotive service center. Additionally, students have access to state-of-the-art tools and equipment, ensuring they are well-prepared for the demands of the industry.
Dr. Starsheema Greene, director of Miami Lakes Educational & Technical Colleges agreed that the partnership is very important to Gus Machado Ford.
“They are heavily invested in seeing these kids succeed. These students are getting not only book work, but hands-on technology, with the same technology that is being utilized in the dealership. And that’s what makes M-DCPS your best choice.”
The program has a positive impact on the local community by providing a skilled workforce to meet the needs of the automotive industry. It also strengthens the relationship between the school and local businesses, fostering a sense of community and collaboration.
Lilliam Machado, widow of Gus Machado, is grateful to the city where her husband started his business and said opening the automotive technology program is a dream come true.
“My husband always was very fond of teaching and of giving opportunities to young people,” Machado said. “It is going to be a very good example to follow because it gives them an opportunity to learn about the auto industry. So, this is very special for me.
The partnership between Hialeah Senior High, MLEC and Gus Machado Ford exemplifies the power of collaboration in education. By combining academic rigor with practical experience, this program not only prepares students for successful careers, but also strengthens the community as a whole.
“I’m really proud of the work we have done with Hialeah High School, stated Benitez. “This is the future home of many technicians that will be working in the South Florida area for the years to come.”
